Count the number of electron domains around the atom
Count each single bond as one electron domain
Count each double bond as one electron domain
Count each triple bond as one electron domain
Count each lone pair as one electron domain
Use the total electron domains to determine hybridization
2 electron domains = sp
3 electron domains = sp2
4 electron domains = sp3
5 electron domains = sp3d
6 electron domains = sp3d2
Identify the atom’s geometry from its electron domains
Match the geometry to the corresponding hybridization
Check for resonance if the atom is part of a conjugated system
Use the hybridization of atoms in pi systems carefully
An atom with one unhybridized p orbital is often sp2
An atom with two unhybridized p orbitals is often sp
Verify the hybridization by examining sigma bonds and lone pairs
Determine whether the atom is steric number 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6
Assign hybridization based on steric number
Confirm that the atom can form the observed bond angles
Use molecular structure rather than only the Lewis structure when needed